You might wonder what you could do with your kids in Suffolk? No to worry, we’ve got you covered!
If the rain arrived on your holiday, you needn’t be stuck with kids for things to do in Suffolk – you can explore the county’s interesting maritime past, discover some of its historic houses and museums, or entertain the kids at a vintage seaside amusement arcade.
With any luck the rain should pass in a few hours due to the coastal breeze! Suffolk has some amazing walks and cycling trails, loads of watersports to try on its rivers.
In addition, broads and beaches, and abundant wildlife in its multiple nature reserves. So whether your kids prefer farms, beaches or forests, we’ve got you covered when it comes to plan your weekend away.
If this is your first time visiting Suffolk with your kids, I would suggest prioritising the following top 5 attractions in the region:
- Easton Farm Park
- Africa Alive
- Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park
- Sutton Hoo
- Pleasurewood Hills
Without any delay, let’s look at the best things to do with kids in Suffolk.
1. Anglia Indoor Karting
Unleash your inner racing driver at this indoor Go Karting complex in Ipswich. Kids can don their racing suits and helmets, before tackling the multi-level circuit in specially designed Kubz Karts. Watch as they gleefully navigate the twists and turns… then its time for the adults to try and beat their lap times!
Address: Unit 12, Farthing Road Industrial Estate, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP1 5AP
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 10pm
2. Pennikity Pots Ceramics Cafe
This town centre ceramics cafe is a wonderful place to get creative with your kids on a rainy day. Warm up with a coffee and a slice of homemade cake, then pick what you want to paint and get those creative juices flowing! Choose from a huge range of ornaments, plates and mugs, which will then be glazed and fired for you ready to collect later. At just £3 per person and no time limit, this is a really good value day out.
Address: Crown Anchor Mews, 1, Tower Ramparts, Ipswich IP1 3DJ
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 9:30am -5:30pm, Sunday 11am – 4pm
3. Easton Farm Park
This farm is surprisingly well equipped for a wet day, with lots of indoor activities to keep younger children entertained. The indoor play areas are suited to various different ages, and there are lots of undercover activities during the school holidays such as craft workshops. There are also many animals undercover in the barns, as well as animal handling sessions and feeding times. In addition, ff you don’t mind getting wet, bring your wellies and tackle the 30 acre ‘green trail.’
Address: Easton Farm Park, Easton, Woodbridge IP13 0EQ
Opening Hours: Open daily, 10:30am – 5:30pm
4. Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of this iconic Suffolk attraction – one of the only remaining tide mills in the world which still produces flour. Dating back over 800 years, this historic mill offers a fascinating insight into how our food is made. Now a modern family attraction as well as a working mill, you will find interactive exhibitions and children’s activities to keep the little ones engrossed. They will love seeing the huge oak wheel turning – check the website for up to date times for this daily event.
Address: Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge IP12 1BY
Opening Hours: Open daily 11am – 5pm
5. Lowestoft Maritime Museum
Explore Suffolk’s maritime past at this family friendly museum, where the kids will be given hates to wear as they wander round – will you be a fisherman, captain, sailor or pirate?! There are also treasure trails to follow, games and toys to play with and craft activities every Thursday in August.
Address: Whapload Road, Lowestoft. NR32 1UL
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 5pm
6. Go Ape, Thetford Forest
For an adventurous family day out, head to the original Go Ape. A high ropes course that offers a whole day of outdoor family fun. Swing your way around 50,000 acres of pine trees, challenge yourself to tackle the rope bridges or stay on terra firma with Forest Segways. However the Treetop Junior Adventure is suitable for children aged 6 and over.
In Thetford Forest you will also find opportunities to rent bicycles and enjoy the walking and cycling trails. Also let the little ones loose on the various play areas.
Address: High Lodge Forest Centre, Brandon IP27 0AF
Opening Hours: Open daily 9am – 4pm
7. Africa Alive
Winner of the Best Large Visitor Attraction at the Norfolk & Suffolk Tourism Awards 2019. Africa Alive is guaranteed to be a big hit with adults and children alike. It will guarantee you a great family days out with your kids in Suffolk. Set in 100 acres of stunning Suffolk countryside, this amazing conservation park lets you see some of the world’s most impressive wildlife up close.
As you make your way around the park, you can spot graceful giraffes and magnificent lions, king colobus monkeys and a range of British wildlife. There is so much for the kids to enjoy here, including indoor and outdoor adventure play areas, animal encounter sessions and a free ‘Safari Roadtrain’ .
Address: Whites Lane, Kessingland, Lowestoft NR33 7TF
Opening Hours: Open daily 9:30am – 5pm
8. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park
This extensive site is a fantastic day out in Suffolk for the family. In addition to the working farm and butchery, visitors will find a wildlife Park, restaurant, vegetable and flower gardens. In addition, a farm shop and clothing, gift and craft shops. Sustainable farming and quality meat and food production is at the heart of this farm’s ethos. Visitors are invited to “share the good life”, embracing the wholesome, eco-friendly atmosphere .
There’s so much to see and do here, from a butterfly house to woodland walks and extensive play areas. We recommend looking at the website’s suggested itineraries so you don’t miss out on anything! Also make sure you buy your ticket online in advance to save some pennies.
Address: Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich IP9 2AR
Opening Hours: Open daily 9:30am – 4:30pm
9. Sutton Hoo
This National Trust owned Anglo-Saxon royal burial site overlooking the River Deben is a fascinating day out in Suffolk for history buffs. In 1939 archaeologists excavated one of the eleven burial mounds, dating back to the 7th century. They discovered an entire ship buried there. Visitors can learn all about this iconic site at The Exhibition Hall. Enjoy various walking routes around the evocative site.
Recently undergoing a multi-million pound renovation, 2019 will see the unveiling of a new full-size Anglo-Saxon ship sculpture. Including a new walking trail and River Walk, a 17 metre high observation tower and a refurbished River Café. During the school holidays you can enjoy Anglo-Saxon battle re-enactments, archaeology digs for kids, family tours and more.
Address: Tranmer House, Woodbridge IP12 3DJ
Opening hours: Open daily 10am – 5pm
10. Day at the Beach
Suffolk’s beaches are varied, wild and beautiful, and for the most part relatively uncrowded. Whether you prefer sweeping sand dunes, activity-packed promenades or wildlife havens, there’s a beach to suit you and your family in Suffolk. We’ve listed three of our favourites for great family days out in Suffolk below:
Dunwich Beach – A haven for wildlife. This National Trust protected beach and nature reserve is a perfect example of Suffolk’s unspoiled beauty. Popular with birdwatchers and dog walkers, the long expanse of shingle is backed by Dunwich Heath. After that you’ll find a charming tearoom to refuel you.
Southwold Beach – This popular beach is lined with candyfloss coloured beach huts. Its iconic pier juts out into the sea, on which you’ll find a cafe, restaurant, family entertainment centre and fantastic 360 degree sea views. The town of Southwold is certainly a nice spot for an afternoon amble.
Felixstowe Beach – A firm favourite with families. Felixstowe beach has loads of attractions surrounding it to keep you busy. Including windsurfing, adventure golf, open air theatre and nature trails.
Need more ideas on things to do with kids in Suffolk? Read on…
11. Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm
Here is a beautiful farm where your children will cuddle little lambs, feed rabbits or carry piglet in your arms. Baylham House is a lovely farm to visit in Suffolk with your children. Animals seem to be very well treated with such a great environment. Your little ones will have fun at the several outdoor play areas on site. Last but least there is a shop where you can buy wool from the local sheeps or even meats that you can take to your holiday letting if you spend more than a day in Suffolk. Don’t miss this great activity to do in Suffolk with the family.
Address: Baylham, Ipswich IP6 8LG
12. Ipswich Museum
If you are visiting Ipswich, don’t forget to pay a visit to Ipswich Museum and discover plenty of galleries around animals and geology. There is even an Egypt section where you can see a mummy and other artefacts. Of course your children will be amazed at looking stuffed big mammals such as a lion, a zebra or a mammoth. Ipswich Museum is a great option if you are looking for things to do with children in Suffolk on a rainy day.
Address: High St, Ipswich IP1 3QH
13. Landguard Fort
Are you looking for something unique to do in Suffolk nearby Ipswich? Landguard Fort is a military construction that was constructed in the 18th century and was of course instrumental during World War II. Your family will explore many different rooms with guided tours and audio/visuals to make the visit even more attractive. Landguard Fort is a great family educational activity to do in Suffolk for sure.
Address: View Point Rd, Felixstowe IP11 3TW
14. Pleasurewood Hills
If you are looking for a fun thing to in Suffolk with your children, simply head out to Pleasurewood Hills. This amusement park has plenty of rides for all ages and will make a great day out in Suffolk without a doubt. You can find different play areas (including indoor soft play area if you are visiting on a rainy day) for young children too and animals shows that feature seals and parrots.
Address: Leisure Way, Lowestoft NR32 5DZ
15. Ipswich Transport Museum
This small museum in Ipswich is a great place to visit if you want to climb up on old buses learn about the evolution of transportation. There are about 100 transports objects to see such as buses, carriages or lorries. For young visitors, the museum has built a playzone area where they can play with a train set.
Address: Old Trolleybus Depot, Cobham Rd, Ipswich IP3 9JD
16. Bourne Park
Bourne Park is located in Ipswich and offers plenty of space for your children to release energy with their peers. You will find not only a great playground, but also a padding pool (seasonal opening) and a picnic area equipped with toilets.
Your kids won’t get bored and will certainly have fun at the several activities available at the park including zip line, swings and a climbing wall.
Address: Bourne Park, Ipswich IP2 9TA
17. Framlingham Castle
Framlingham Castle is a medieval fortress located in the market town of Framlingham in Suffolk.
The castle has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built by Roger Bigod, the Earl of Norfolk, during the late 12th century. The castle underwent several modifications and expansions over the centuries.
Today, Framlingham Castle is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, including the wall walk, and learn about its history through informative displays and exhibits.
Framlingham Castle hosts various events throughout the year, including historical talks, and family-friendly activities. These events provide a lively and educational experience for families and other visitors.
Address: Church St, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9BP
18. The Food Museum
Situated in the Stowmarket, the Food Museum (formerly known as the Museum of East Anglian Life) was established in 1967 and is situated on a 84-acre site in the heart of Suffolk. The museum’s location includes historic buildings, gardens, and farmland, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience of East Anglian rural life.
It houses an extensive collection of over 40,000 objects, including farming equipment, tools, household items, and historical artifacts.
The museum’s grounds feature gardens and farmland, providing insight into traditional agricultural practices. Visitors can explore the gardens and see how crops were cultivated in the past.
The museum has a café where visitors can enjoy refreshments and a gift shop offering a range of locally sourced products and souvenirs.
Address: Iliffe Way, Stowmarket IP14 1SL
19. Suffolk Owl Sanctuary
If your children want to learn about owls, they will certainly enjoy visiting the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary. Located in Stonham Aspal, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is a centre dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of owls and other birds of prey.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is the chance to witness flying displays. Trained birds demonstrate their natural behaviours in a controlled environment, allowing visitors to appreciate their aerial skills and learn more about their habitats and hunting techniques.
The sanctuary offers well-maintained facilities, including aviaries and enclosures designed to provide a suitable environment for the birds. There are also picnic areas, a gift shop, and a cafe for visitors to enjoy during their visit.
Address: Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket IP14 6AT
20. RSPB Minsmere
RSPB Minsmere is a nature reserve located on the Suffolk coast. It is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), one of the UK’s leading wildlife conservation organisations.
RSPB Minsmere provides well-maintained trails and boardwalks, allowing visitors to explore the various habitats within the reserve. There are designated routes for different interests and fitness levels, offering opportunities to see different aspects of the wildlife.
The reserve is designed to be accessible to a wide range of visitors, including families, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.
Address: Sheepwash Lane, Westleton, Saxmundham IP17 3BY
22. Hollow Trees Farm
Hollow Trees Farm is a popular family-friendly farm attraction located in Semer, near Hadleigh.
The farm is home to a variety of animals, including traditional farm animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, goats, and chickens. Visitors often have the opportunity to interact with and feed the animals.
The farm typically features outdoor play areas for children, including playgrounds with slides, swings, and other activities.
The venue offers an exciting Autumn/Winter farm trail where your little ones can meet chickens, goats and ponies.
This makes it a popular destination for families with young children.
Address: A1141, Semer, Ipswich IP7 6HX
22. Escape Ipswich
Please note that Escape Ipswich is for children aged 10+
If you’re like us and you enjoy trying an escape room during your holiday, have a look at the Escape Ipswich.
Ipswich Escape Rooms offers a variety of escape rooms with different themes and storylines. Each room typically has a unique scenario, and participants must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and unlock mysteries to successfully complete the challenge.
At the moment, the venue offers exciting games such as the Da Vinci Room with a success rate of 56% or Sub-Zero with 51% of visitors who solved the game.
Address: Unit 3, The Old Unicorn, Orwell Pl, Ipswich IP4 1BB
23. Jump In Ipswich
Located in Ipswich, Jump In is among the favourite indoor activities for kids with the locals. The venue provides a variety of trampoline-based activities, including open jump sessions, trampoline fitness classes, and special events.
You can book your session that can last from 60 minutes up to 2 hours depending how exciting your kids are!
Also there is a great soft play area with 18 slides suitable for young children and a café to drink your hot favourite drink.
Address: Anglia Retail Park, Bury Rd, Ipswich IP1 5QP
24. Clip’n Climb Ipswich
Clip ‘n Climb Ipswich is an indoor climbing centre featuring a variety of climbing challenges suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Safety is a top priority at Clip ‘n Climb. Climbers are typically provided with safety briefings and equipment, including harnesses. The automatic belay system ensures a controlled descent, and staff members are present to assist and monitor safety.
In addition to being an entertaining activity, climbing at Clip ‘n Climb provides a good workout, combining strength and agility. It’s an engaging way to stay active and have fun simultaneously.
Address: 2 Berwick Rd, The Havens, Ransomes Industrial Estate, Ipswich IP3 9ST
25. Tenpin Ipswich
If your family fancy a game or two of bowling, you can’t go wrong by allocating some time at Tenpin Ipswich.
The primary attraction at Tenpin Ipswich is its bowling lanes of course. The venue typically features a modern and well-maintained bowling facility with 20 multiple lanes.
In addition to bowling, Tenpin Ipswich offers arcade game areas where families can enjoy a variety of video games but also ping-pong or air hockey.
You can also have lunch or dinner at Tenpin and enjoy a tasty burger or a pizza.
Address: Gloster Rd, Martlesham Heath, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the prettiest place in Suffolk?
If I would pick one particular place not to miss during your holiday Suffolk, it would be a day out in Lavenham. This medieval village is known for its well-preserved timber-framed buildings, charming streets, and historic market square.
What is Suffolk famous for?
Suffolk is known for its charming and well-preserved medieval villages with timber-framed buildings. Lavenham, for example, is often considered one of England’s most beautiful villages.
The county is known for its picturesque countryside, including the scenic Dedham Vale, which inspired the paintings of renowned artist John Constable.
Suffolk’s coastline features attractive towns like Southwold and Aldeburgh with their traditional seaside charm, colourful beach huts, and historic piers.
Suffolk has a rich agricultural heritage, known for its fertile farmland and the production of crops such as barley. The county is also famous for its Suffolk Punch horses, a rare breed of heavy horse.
And finally, Suffolk has inspired various writers and artists, including George Orwell, who spent time in the county and wrote about it. The region’s landscapes and villages have often been featured in literature and art.
What’s good about Suffolk?
Suffolk is such an attractive region of England where cultural heritage meets with seaside little towns. Whether you fancy staying in urban areas like Bury St Edmunds or Ipswich or by the coast in Aldeburgh, this English county of Suffolk has plenty to do for families visiting for a few days or on a long holiday with the kids.
Any unusual things to do in Suffolk?
Suffolk offers a range of unique and unusual experiences for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions.
For instance, families could spend a few hours at the Redgrave and Lopham Fen, one of the most ancient wetland areas in Britain. Redgrave and Lopham Fen is a nature reserve that provides a unique habitat for wildlife and offers walking trails.
You could also discover the darker side of Bury St Edmunds with a guided ghost tour pending your children are old enough not to be scared. Your will Learn about the town’s haunted history and mysterious stories.
Another unique thing to do is go crabbing in Walberswick. Your children can experience the traditional seaside activity of crabbing in the charming village of Walberswick. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend time by the coast.
CONCLUSION
You have reached the end of my article of the best things to do with kids in Suffolk. You’ve probably spotted a few activities that you don’t want to miss during your weekend or holiday in Suffolk with the family.
Enjoy your precious family time in Suffolk!
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